Kuching: The Sarawak Cancer Centre project is making progress as it enters the pre-implementation stage, announced Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Dr Sim, who also serves as Sarawak's Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, stated that the Public Works Department (JKR) has been appointed as the implementing agency for the project.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JKR is currently preparing the cost estimation for the proposed 310-bed facility. The project gained momentum after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed on March 30 last year that the federal government had agreed to the construction of the Sarawak Cancer Centre in Samarahan Division. Anwar noted that Sarawak is setting a precedent by being the first state government to pre-finance a federal project to expedite its implementation.

Dr Sim also highlighted that as of April 30 this year, the Sarawak State Health Department has received RM2.81 billion in operating funds and RM500.59 million in development funds from the Federal Ministry of Health (MOH). These funds are designated for operational expenses, human capital development, minor upgrades, and repairs on health facilities, as well as hospital and clinic support services, including the procurement of medical equipment.

Sarawak is currently supported by 26,978 government healthcare personnel, including 1,907 on contract. Dr Sim emphasized that this workforce reflects the ongoing commitment to enhancing the healthcare system to better serve the public.